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Honey Garlic Lemon Roasted Chicken Wings

Honey Garlic Lemon Roasted Chicken Wings

Honey Garlic Lemon Roasted Chicken Wings are a perfect blend of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors with a crispy, juicy finish. This easy-to-make recipe features fresh chicken wings marinated in a bright mixture of honey, fresh garlic, lemon juice, and zest, then oven-roasted to golden perfection. Ideal for casual gatherings, weeknight dinners, or party appetizers, these wings satisfy cravings with minimal ingredients and fuss-free preparation.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken Wings

  • 2 pounds fresh or thawed chicken wings

Marinade

  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Optional Herbs and Spices

  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
  • Chili flakes or cayenne pepper to taste (for spicy variation)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Marinade: In a mixing bowl, whisk together honey, minced garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, olive oil, salt, and pepper until well combined to create a bright and flavorful marinade that will coat and infuse the wings.
  2. Marinate the Wings: Place the chicken wings in a large resealable bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the wings, ensuring they are thoroughly coated. Seal and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for deeper flavor penetration.
  3. Preheat the Oven and Arrange Wings: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with foil and place a wire rack on top. Arrange the marinated wings in a single layer on the rack to allow even roasting and crisp skin development.
  4. Roast the Wings: Roast the wings in the oven for 40 to 45 minutes, flipping them halfway through to ensure even cooking. Look for a deep golden-brown color and crispy edges as a sign they are perfectly done.
  5. Serve and Enjoy: Transfer the roasted wings to a serving platter. Optionally, warm any leftover marinade gently and drizzle over the wings or use as a dipping sauce. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley and lemon wedges for a fresh finishing touch.

Notes

  • Pat dry the wings with paper towels before marinating to ensure crispier skin when baked.
  • Use a wire rack on the baking sheet to allow air circulation and prevent sogginess.
  • Don’t skip the lemon zest; it adds concentrated citrus oils that enhance aroma and flavor depth.
  • Adjust honey quantity to balance sweetness and tang to your personal preference.
  • Let the wings rest for 5 minutes after roasting to lock in juiciness before serving.

Nutrition

Keywords: Honey garlic chicken wings, lemon chicken wings, roasted chicken wings, baked wings, party appetizers, gluten-free wings